Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
River/RiparianUrban Park
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 225 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian and urban park habitat attracts Barred Owl and Hairy Woodpecker among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/3/2026Lake Phalen1 observed

American White Pelican

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

3/1/2026Kaposia Landing1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/28/2026Oriole

Turkey Vulture (Northern)

Cathartes aura

2/28/2026River Road E1 observed

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

2/27/2026Macalester College, Saint Paul US-MN 44.93556, -93.170231 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

2/27/2026University of Minnesota--agricultural fields2 observed

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

2/27/2026Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant--Wildlife Viewing Area1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

2/27/2026St. Croix River Boat Ramp and Boom Site--Stillwater1 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

2/26/2026Coon Rapids Dam (Anoka Co.)1 observed

Bohemian Waxwing

Bombycilla garrulus

2/24/2026Forest Lake Rest Area100 observed

Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon)

Junco hyemalis

2/22/2026Crocus Street Northwest, Andover1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve for birding?
The best months to visit Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve?
Notable species at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve include Belted Kingfisher, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow, Great Blue Heron, Cedar Waxwing. The area supports river/riparian, urban park habitats.
How difficult is birding at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve?
Birding at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve?
Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.